Final Cut Pro: What is Logging and Capturing?

If you are a beginner to using Final Cut Pro, then you may be
unfamiliar with many of the terms which are used to describe the various
functions of the system. If you would like to learn how to use Final
Cut Pro to the best of its abilities, then you will need to know how
these parts can be managed. Capturing all of your film into a media
file, and then converting it into clips, can be easily done once you
know how to use Final Cut Pro to log and capture. Learning how to do
this can be an intimidating prospect, but you should be able to manage
it by learning a few quick tricks on the computer.

Materials Needed

DV camcorder

Final Cut Pro

Firewire cable connection

Computer

Media File

Step 1: Setting up the Camcorder

Before you can use Final Cut Pro to chop anything, you will need to
know how to connect the various systems together. When attaching the DV
camcorder, make sure that the video is fully rewound, so that it is
ready to play. You can then place the firewire cable into the recorder,
and attach the other end to a convenient USB port on your computer. Let
the computer accept and read the camcorder before you open up Final Cut,
otherwise it may not be visible when you open it.

Step 2: Using Final Cut Pro

Once the camcorder is accepted by the computer, open up your Final
Cut Pro software. Open the section which says File, and look under the
Log and Capture sessions. These buttons should be easily visible, so if
you cannot see them right away, you may need to shut down the computer
and open it up again with the camcorder still attached.

Step 3: Capturing the Film

Once you open up the Log and Capture button, you should be able to
see a tab which is named Log and Capture Video. This is the one that you
want. Click on that, and you should see another widow open up, with a
list of capturing and logging options. Click on the one which says
Capture Settings, and then Scratch Disks. This will allow you to save
the video. You will be offered the opportunity to save the file in your
hard drive. Save the file somewhere convenient, and ensure that you give
it a memorable name.

Step 4: Logging the Video

You will then be able to check that the video has been correctly
saved. When the video has been captured, click upon the button which
gives the option Logging. You will then see the original screen. Check
that your video is back at the beginning of the tape, and then look for
three options called Clip, Now and Batch. Choose the Now option, and
then press Play on your tape at the same time. This should cause your
video to be saved on Final Cut Pro.